2002-10-10 - 5:01 p.m.

More Alike Than Different

I floundered today. I had something I wanted to write and it went off in two different directions. And then I listened to Wink Martindale on the radio, and he pointed me here.

In last week’s newspaper, I read a column by a Moslem clergyman, pointing out the similarities between Islam and other religions, such as Judaism and Christianity. All believe in God, in charity and kindness toward others, and in a distinction between good and evil. The Koran, in fact, points out that a Christian is a good friend to a Moslem.

This morning on the radio, I heard about a group in Atlanta that brings together twelve-year-olds from all three religions. They get to know each other, and many become friends. They discuss more than just religion, because kids have multiple interests – their music, their schools, the Braves and the Falcons. As they will tell you, they are more alike than different.

There are exceptions, of course. No one is all “good” or all “evil,” and there are all kinds of people in every group. But the last thing we need is someone like Jerry Falwell, announcing that “Mohammed was a terrorist.” Not only are his facts distorted, but he is stirring up bad feelings among all groups. What is the matter with that man?

Last year, I wrote to Wink Martindale about one of my favorite songs, “You’ve Got to Be Taught” from “South Pacific.” He played an interview with the lyricist, Oscar Hammerstein II, and then played Sammy Davis’ recording. He played them again today, along with “Getting to Know You” from “The King and I.” He even mentioned my name again. lol

Maybe I’ll catch it again on Saturday with “The Best of Wink.” Hope springs eternal.

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Pretty Clever, Huh? - 2008-12-08
Deja Vu... - 2008-12-07
Morally Wrong - 2008-11-25
The Difference - 2008-11-18
Writer's Block? - 2008-11-17